Means (e.g., Target, Terrain Model, Etc.) Marked Or Pierced To Simulate Projectile Impact Point Patents (Class 434/23)
  • Patent number: 11725913
    Abstract: This installation for locating impacts comprises an interactive plate, at least three transducers arranged and distributed against the interactive plate in order to pick up progressive mechanical waves propagating therein and to transform them into electrical signals, and an electronic central unit programmed to locate an impact in the interactive plate by an analysis of the electrical signals that it receives from the transducers. It further includes an additional plate attached to the front face of the interactive plate and having an impact-receiving zone, and means for attaching the additional plate to the interactive plate, configured to ensure contact against the entire portion of the front face of the interactive plate located opposite the impact-receiving zone of the additional plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives
    Inventors: Jean-Marc Alexandre, Robert Boden, Christian Bolzmacher
  • Patent number: 11631339
    Abstract: A training simulation system and method for detection of hazardous materials simulates real-world hazardous environments to provide a trainee with hazardous material training. The system provides a hazardous material detection simulator that displays simulated readings to indicate presence thereof. The detection simulator automatically generates the simulated readings, based on its relative position to the hazard point, and based on preprogrammed hazard points in the area. A host trainer, through a trainer communication device, remotely generates and adjusts the simulated readings while tracking vehicle's position. A vehicle integrally contains the hazardous material detection simulator. A trainee controls the vehicle while also observing and reacting to the simulated readings. Once the hazard point is determined, based on simulated readings, the trainee can form a decision on the readings and react accordingly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2023
    Inventor: Stephen Clark
  • Patent number: 9011151
    Abstract: According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system for simulating firing a gun comprises a firing system and a transmitting system coupled to the firing system. The firing system fires a cartridge and comprises a chamber and a hammer. The chamber receives and holds the cartridge, and the hammer strikes the cartridge. The transmitting system detects movement of the hammer and transmits simulation data prior to the hammer striking the cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Giles D. Jones, Qingce Bian, Christopher A. Tomlinson, Jeffrey E. Decker, William W. Price, Bradley C Huang, Peter M. Wallrich
  • Patent number: 8911235
    Abstract: The invention is a trigger pull training device for improving trigger pull technique. The device has a frame with a trigger track opening and a trigger which goes through that opening. A proximity sensor or a plurality of proximity sensors are placed proximate the trigger track opening. The sensors are connected to an indicator whereby pulling the trigger such that the trigger is within the sensing zone causes the proximity sensor to emit a signal. A plurality of sensors can be lined along the trigger track opening to indicate the accuracy of any pull.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: TriggerMaster, Inc.
    Inventor: Malcom Baxter
  • Patent number: 8777620
    Abstract: A firearm training system provides a firearm body having a trigger and a trigger pull sensor circuit. When the trigger is pulled, the trigger pull sensor circuit provides trigger pull data allowing monitoring of the actual two-dimensional trigger pull path taken by the trigger during the trigger pull. The trigger pull path is graft on a predetermined map together with boundary lines representing a predetermined difference threshold from ideal trigger pull data. The system provides a way to monitor trigger pull path to determine whether the trigger has been pulled laterally and/or the firearm body has moved with respect to a longitudinal axis of the firearm body during the trigger pull. By repeatedly monitoring trigger pulls using the system, a user can train to improve trigger pull technique.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: TriggerMaster, Inc.
    Inventor: Malcom Baxter
  • Publication number: 20140065578
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an airburst simulation system and method. The airburst simulation system includes a laser emitting unit to emit laser beam to an airburst aiming position, preset above a target hidden behind an obstacle, such that a warhead is airbursted to shoot the target, a laser detecting unit mounted onto the target to detect an arrival of the laser beam above the target, and a determining unit to measure a distance between the airburst aiming position and an arrival position of the laser detected by the laser detecting unit, and determine whether or not the target has been shot based on the distance. This allows for a simulated engagement using an airburst apparatus, with no harm to human bodies by virtue of the use of laser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Joon-Ho LEE, Je-Wook CHAE, Eui-Jung CHOE, Sung-Bae LEE, Hyun-Jun KIM
  • Patent number: 8655257
    Abstract: A moving, shooting, video recording, human-appearing combat training machine comprising of three major components referred to as the mobile base unit, the target body and an unattached control system is provided. The base unit has a chassis plate driven by a plurality of motors and a plurality of wheel assemblies within an exterior armor which protects internal components of the chassis from projectile impacts. The target body mounts to an extension plate affixed to the underside of the chassis plate of the base unit, creating an overall human appearing subject that moves in varying directions. The combat training machine returns fire by shooting projectiles while recording video with an electronic or mechanical sighting system for target and video playback for training analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Daniel Spychaiski
  • Patent number: 8523185
    Abstract: A target shooting system includes a gun which shoots a projectile at a target which is part of a target assembly. The target includes a sensor which senses a projectile hit, and passes an electronic signal to a target information processor located in the target assembly. The target information processor processes the hit information, and transmits a target hit signal to a system processor over a wireless rf link. The system processor stores and displays the hit information, and broadcasts a hit announcement to the shooter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventors: Don Herbert Gilbreath, Conor Patrick Gilbreath
  • Patent number: 8520895
    Abstract: A system and method calculate a range and velocity of an object in image data. The range calculation includes detecting a contour of the object from the image data, forming a template from the image data based on the contour; and calculating a range to the object using pixel resolution and dimension statistics of the object. A three-dimensional velocity of the object is determined by calculating a radial component and an angular component of the velocity. The radial velocity component is calculated by determining the range of the object in two or more image frames, determining a time differential between the two or more image frames, and calculating the radial velocity as a function of the range of the object in the two or more image frames and the time differential between the two or more image frames. The angular component is calculated using spatial-temporal derivatives as a function of a motion constraint equation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Kwong Wing Au, Saad J. Bedros
  • Patent number: 8393900
    Abstract: A system for aligning a simulator arranged for firing a mounted on a weapon. The simulator has a radiation source arranged so as to emit a beam along a simulation axis, and for adjusting the simulation axis so that it is aligned with the weapon sight. The system includes a sighting mark at which the weapon sight is to be aimed during alignment, and a device arranged in connection with the sighting mark to emit beam along an axis representing an aligned simulation axis. The system further includes an aligning unit that is deployable at the simulator and in which at least a first part of the beam from the element is reflected along an axis representing the current position of the simulation axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Saab AB
    Inventor: Per Renntoft
  • Patent number: 8360776
    Abstract: A training system and method to calculate actual coordinates of a projectile impact at one or more screens has been disclosed. A projectile is launched at a screen. One or more targets are projected onto the screen. A calibrated sensor is directed at the screen surface. The sensor continually captures thermal images of a screen surface. The sensor comprises software to detect and isolate thermal images of the projectile impacting the screen. These impact images are transmitted to a computer connected to the sensor. A computer comprises software to calculate the actual impact coordinates relative to a projected target. The calculated coordinates are digitally sent to feedback devices for display purposes. The system further comprises virtual training scenarios that are triggered upon notification of actual impact coordinates. These training scenarios simulate real life situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Laser Shot, Inc.
    Inventors: Paige Manard, Charles Doty
  • Patent number: 8308482
    Abstract: A personal under fire trainer includes a harness holding a wireless receiver and plural electrode leads. The harness can be donned by a trainee and the leads connected to electrodes attached to the trainee's body. A trainer can operate a remote transmitter to send a signal to the receiver, activating one or more electrodes which contract the trainee's muscles, forcing the trainee to react under simulated gun fight conditions while receiving simulated gunshot wounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventors: Timothy Andrew Pearce, Jeffrey Frank Vasquez
  • Patent number: 8021220
    Abstract: A shooting game apparatus includes an LCD for displaying a target and an operating button for a player to perform an operation for shooting the target. For example, an enemy character is switched between an ineffective state in which it is never damaged even if an attack hits it, and an effective state in which it is damaged if an attack hits it. Different images are displayed depending on whether the target is in the ineffective state or in the effective state. In a case where the target is in the effective state, when a player character enters into a state of being continuously damaged because it is positioned an area where it receives continuous damage, for example, the target is switched into the ineffective state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshio Sakamoto, Katsuya Yamano
  • Publication number: 20110045445
    Abstract: The Officer Under Fire Perpetrator is a remote-controlled, moving, target human-like in appearance and movements and is comprised of two major components referred to as the base unit and the target body. The base unit houses all components, consisting of a chassis plate (moved by: four electric motor/wheel assemblies) housed within an armor box providing protection from bullets. This system provides live-video footage to assist human trainer, remote-control operation, in addition to post-training review as shootout scenarios unfold. An electronic sighting system is displayed on live video, ensuring the training weapon's accuracy while shooting training projectiles at trainees. Equipped with a moving target body arm, the human-appearing target body is capable of withstanding numerous bullet hits and mounts into the base unit. This allows for a simulated firearms range shootout between the O.U.F. Perpetrator firing training projectiles, as a trainee is firing bullets upon the target's body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: Daniel Joseph Spychalski
  • Publication number: 20100291514
    Abstract: An impact indicator for shooting training, in which an impact indicator includes a pipe body, a light beam module and a compression structure. A wall surface of the pipe body is penetrated with holes, and the light beam module is configured with a switch and located at one end of the pipe body. The compression structure is fitted with a piston at one end remote from the light beam module, and a rod is located at the other end. Accordingly, when air currents are outwardly expelled from the interior of a gun barrel and push the compression structure, then the rod of the compression structure activates the switch of the light beam module, causing the light beam module to emit a light beam. The present invention is thus provided with practical advancement to enable instantaneous indication of the shooting point of impact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventor: Yin-Hsi Liao
  • Patent number: 7677893
    Abstract: The present invention relates to training simulators for sharp shooting and introduces a number of functionalities that provide significant savings and further efficiencies such as usage of actual unmodified combat firearms for training purposes, simultaneous training of two individual shooters with individual identification and result display of the firing activity from each shooter on a computer generated concentrical target analogous to the ones used today in firearm training facilities, as well as the usage of a specialized weapon trigger contactor which is mounted on the actual weapon and that provides the usage functionalities to allow training on all single, and double action pistols as well as fully automatic weapons. The simulator also incorporates an emitting unit consisting of a laser light diode and the associated mounting mechanisms which allow the mounting of the emitting unit on any standard firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventor: Matvey Lvovskiy
  • Publication number: 20080248449
    Abstract: The present invention relates to target acquisition and related systems and devices, and more particularly to telescopic gunsights and associated equipment used to achieve shooting accuracy at, for example, close ranges, medium ranges and extreme ranges. The present invention also provides targets and methods of using the systems to achieve enhanced shooting accuracy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: Horus Vision, LLC
    Inventor: Dennis J. Sammut
  • Publication number: 20080179832
    Abstract: A gun sighting kit (8) and a method for gun sighting are preformed by placing a clear sheet (12) having a concentric circular graph (10) over a cluster of shots (32) on a target (28) that need only have a center location (30). A center (16) of the concentric circular graph has a hole (16?) through which a center (36) of the shot cluster is marked. The kit (8) also includes a square grid (18) on a clear sheet (20) that is then placed over the marked target so that a center (22) of the grid is located at the target center in order to permit determination of the horizontal and vertical deviation of the shot cluster center (36) from the target center, in order to permit necessary gun sight adjustment for proper aiming.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: Michael P. Miller
  • Patent number: 7291014
    Abstract: A weapon simulator assembly having a wireless module provided in a simulated weapon to maximize the freedom of movement for the user and to provide complete diagnostics from electronic sensors for users of the firearms training simulator. The wireless module is embedded in the simulated weapon used in the simulator assembly and connected to various sensors to obtain operational information. The wireless data communication link is a wireless module using a frequency hopping spread spectrum technology such that the wireless module can fit in a small firearm simulator, such as a handgun or chemical spray simulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: FATS, Inc.
    Inventors: Bobby Hsiang-Hua Chung, Kelvin William Klusendorf
  • Patent number: 7287231
    Abstract: A graphical user interface devices, methods, and systems for creating and editing a simulation model and for presenting the simulation model simulated within a scenario are provided. The device includes a first component that allows a user to enter and edit platforms and associated attributes for the simulation model. Commodities can be entered, edited via a second component, or assigned to a platform via a third component. A directory structure includes an organizational units and platform directory structures. The platform directory structures store platform information based on platform type. Platforms, commodities, or scenario aspects can be reviewed and edited using a graphical user interface. The present invention provides an output for allowing a user to view commodity usage at any desired aspect of the simulation model. The simulation model is created using a simulation reference modeling language.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Steven W. Reichenthal, Thomas A. Billig, Jack S. Stewart
  • Patent number: 7147472
    Abstract: A system, called the Laser Aim Scoring System, and method for automatically scoring gunner training sessions for simulated laser-guided missile, target engagements using the laser designator without the need for training or tactical rounds are disclosed. In the disclosed invention, a pop-up target and its surrounds are separately monitored for radiations at the laser designator frequency. “Hit” or “Miss” scoring is based on detection of the laser radiation at the laser designator frequency illuminating the appropriate region around or on the target at the appropriate time with respect to a simulated missile launch signal at the start of the training engagement, in accordance with the engagement profile programmed into the scoring computer prior to the start of training. The laser aim scoring system send a signal to lower the pop-up target in response to a “Hit” score, and if desired by the user, also sends a signal to initiate smoke and flash signals from a Hoffman Kill Simulator interfaced with the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: James D. Habersat, Brian C. Redman, Jonathan S. Lei, John E. Nettleton, Michael M. Quarles
  • Patent number: 7121464
    Abstract: A system for precisely timing the firing of two or more weapons in order to create a desired arrival timing of two or more projectiles on a target. Global Positioning System (“GPS”) transceivers are used to determine the position of each weapon and report that position to a command post. Heading-to-target and ranging information is also preferably transmitted so that the command post is able to accurately fix the position of the target, and the range of each weapon to the target. Computations are then performed in order to determine the firing sequence needed to achieve a desired arrival of two or more projectiles on the target. Firing of the weapons is then performed automatically in order to properly execute the computed firing sequence. Interactive command and control data is fed back and forth between the weapons and the command post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Thompkins W. White
  • Patent number: 6942486
    Abstract: The simulator of the invention is based on a number of functional units connected directly or remotely to the central computer for controlling the operation and recording the shooting results. The weapon unit is untethered and includes a real hand gun equipped with a snap-on emitter unit to send simultaneously two beams of light upon pulling the trigger—a wide angle infrared beam and a narrowly focused and aimed at the target light beam. The infrared beam is registered by the sensor near the screen and a signal indicating a firing event is sent to the computer. The light beam, preferably from a laser source is sent towards the screen, reflected therefrom towards the optical block and travels through a number of fixed and rotating mirrors and through a light divider to the light sensor. That sensor when activated sends the HIT or MISS signal to the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Inventor: Matvey Lvovskiy
  • Patent number: 6840772
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for evaluating electronic impacts or shots of fired shots in a shooting range for sportsmen and for hunter training. The target to be shot at is provided as a light spot and is projected onto a target wall (1) via a light source in such a way that said target can move in all directions. An infrared camera (7) records the shooting image on the target wall (1) for evaluating the impact. The aim of the invention is to increase accuracy and reduce the evaluation time. Target co-ordinates arm detected while the target is being provided. Said target coordinates arm compared to the impact co-ordinates obtained by means of the impact evaluation. An impact is signalled when an impact falls short of a given divergence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Dynamit Nobel GmbH Explosivstoff-und Systemtechnik
    Inventor: Rudolf Pura
  • Publication number: 20040241622
    Abstract: A system for precisely timing the firing of two or more weapons in order to create a desired arrival timing of two or more projectiles on a target. Global Positioning System (“GPS”) transceivers are used to determine the position of each weapon and report that position to a command post. Heading-to-target and ranging information is also preferably transmitted so that the command post is able to accurately fix the position of the target, and the range of each weapon to the target. Computations are then performed in order to determine the firing sequence needed to achieve a desired arrival of two or more projectiles on the target. Firing of the weapons is then performed automatically in order to properly execute the computed firing sequence. Interactive command and control data is fed back and forth between the weapons and the command post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Thompkins W. White
  • Publication number: 20040146840
    Abstract: A simulated real-time environment employs a plurality of computer controlled video projectors and screens at least fore and aft of a participant-trainee to present life-size displays mutually coordinated to represent views of a same environment from a participant's perspective, each screen representing the participant's view looking in a different direction. In response to a participant's actions, the computer seamlessly changes a projected video to match the participant' actions and maintain a scenario consistent between the two screens. The participant uses a light-emitting simulated firearm or his own firearm loaded with a light-emitting cartridge and/or other equipment with which he is familiar, such as a modified or simulated flashlight, taser, chemical spray container or the like, tethered or untethered by a communication wire, to respond to a simulated situation, which response detected and interpreted by the computer to direct a branch in the projected videos and even shoot back a simulated bullet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventors: Steven G. Hoover, David McLean, Scott E. Martin, George W.T. Haynes, William J. Halley
  • Patent number: 6709272
    Abstract: A method for facilitating firearms training is provided. The method comprises using a client computer system to access via the Internet a retrieval system on a host computer system. The retrieval system is adapted to retrieve a firearms training simulation stored in a computer database upon receiving a signal. The firearms training simulation is adapted to train a trainee in using a firearm. The method further comprises inputting the signal in a manner such that the retrieval system retrieves the firearms training simulation from the database and transfers it to the client computer system in a manner sufficient for the firearms trainee to train with the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Bruce K. Siddle
  • Publication number: 20040033472
    Abstract: An all-optical precision gunnery simulation (PGS) system that may be adapted to simulate many tactical gunnery scenarios. The eye-safe system of this invention uses a 1550 nanometer optical infrared (IR) signal to permit increased range and field-of-view (FOV) and reduced scintillation over that of the 904 nanometer IR signals known in the art. Temporal and spatial diversity permit error-free operation over long ranges through dust and scintillation. The system performs all trajectory simulation and hit-miss assessment at the target, thereby permitting the shooter to “fire and forget” without holding station to monitor the target position. The simulation results may be reported to the shooter by passively modulating the retroreflection of an optical return window signal from the shooter. Alternatively, the target may compute shooter position from incoming optical pixel signal data for use in reporting by means of an active narrow-beam optical signal from the target back to the shooter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Deepak Varshneya
  • Patent number: 6604064
    Abstract: A simulation system for operation of simulated weapons on moving vehicles includes a platform for supporting a trainee and an actuator operable with the platform for providing pitch and roll movement to the platform in conformance with pre-recorded live movements. A demilitarized weapon is operated from the platform with the weapon providing a weapon triggering signal to a system computer. A pulsed laser light source is attached to the barrel of the weapon for emitting a beam and placing an infrared spot onto a video projection screen which displays a recorded scene provided by a video projector. A spot tracker continuously tracks the spot as the trainee aims the weapon toward selected targets within the scene, and provides coordinate location data representative of spot locations on the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Ronald S. Wolff, Edward J. Purvis, Robert T. McCormack, Paul G. Barber
  • Publication number: 20030082502
    Abstract: A digital target spotting system for scoring projectile shots on a target. The system has a computer with a display, a digital image capturing device (e.g. digital camera or camcorder used with an optical spotting scope) adapted for capturing digital images of a target, an event sensor that detects when a projectile is shot at the target, an anemometer for detecting wind speed and detecting wind direction and a chronograph for detecting the projectile speed of a projectile shot at the target. A communication hub acts as a communication hub between the computer and the input sensor devices. Computer software loaded on the computer processes digital images from the digital image capturing device and extracting hits on the target image to determine where on the target hits are made and scores a shooter's performance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventors: H. Robert Stender, Eric Skopec
  • Publication number: 20030003425
    Abstract: A device and method for training a shooter to shoot with improved accuracy. A picture of a target is fixedly mounted in front of a sight on a bow or gun. The picture is mounted in a stationary position which visually aligns an aiming point in the sight with the center of the picture when the shooter is in a shooting position. The shooter then shoots a plurality of shots in a safe direction while looking through the sight and focusing on the stationary mounted picture. In this manner, the shooter's subconscious mind is trained to keep the sight aligned with an actual target while shooting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventor: Fay F. Frigon
  • Patent number: 6450817
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for simulating the danger posed by mines or hand grenades to one or several participants in a military exercise. At least one weaponry simulator simulating a mine or a hand grenade and the sensor devices allocated to the individual participants are used and the effect of mines or hand grenades is simulated by transmitting data between the weaponry simulator and the sensor devices of the participants. According to the invention, data is transmitted through two-way radio communication between the weaponry simulator and the sensor devices of the individual participants. Radio transmission from the individual sensor devices of the participants to the weaponry simulator is carried out in the near field zone of the transmitting and receiving antennae involved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Dornier GmbH
    Inventor: Rudolf Deinlein
  • Patent number: 6254394
    Abstract: An area weapons effect simulation system and method that determine the extent of simulated injuries and damage sustained by players such as soldiers and vehicles as a consequence of simulated mines, projectiles, air defenses, and toxic or nuclear clouds in near real time. The system uses a distributed architecture that simulates the effect that area weapons would have on each player in real time or near real time, thus allowing players to determine the consequences of their tactics and actions as a part of a combat training exercise. Player Units are pre-loaded with information which allows them to determine the probability of damage or injury, depending on the type of player, defensive measures taken on the part of the player, and the type of weapon being simulated. Alternatively, such information may be down-loaded to each Player Unit as necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Cubic Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert L. Draper, Dennis D. Rogers
  • Patent number: 6196844
    Abstract: The present invention concerns the integration of laser engagement systems such as the MITS and MILES laser systems with standard two dimensional silhouettes, thereby creating a silhouette which can be defeated by laser fire. A laser enhanced silhouette allows live fire target systems (infantry systems and armor systems) to be engaged and defeated with the use of MILES laser Code. The laser enhanced silhouette replaces the plywood or plastic live fire silhouette which is normally utilized on live fire target systems. By connecting the laser enhanced silhouette electronics to the live fire target system's hit sensor electrical connection, the live fire target system can be engaged by laser equipped weapons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Inventors: Michael S. Bradshaw, Allen D. Beets, Albert G. Corkery, III, Christopher B. Hickman
  • Patent number: 6146142
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for developing shooting skills that take into account the effects of wind on the trajectory of a bullet. The method includes the step of entering basic shooting data into a central unit, measuring force and direction of the wind with at least one wind indicator, feeding the measured force and direction of the wind to the central unit, analyzing the measured force and direction of the wind and the entered data to determine the effects of the wind on the trajectory of the bullet and transmitting the effects of the wind to a marksman. The apparatus includes at least one wind indicator for measuring force and direction of the wind. A central unit is provided to allow entry of basic shooting data. The central unit also collects and analyzes the measured force and direction of the wind with the entered data. The data analyzed by the central unit is transmitted to the marksman through a terminal which tells the marksman what effects the wind will have on the trajectory of the bullet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Asko Nuutinen
  • Patent number: 6106297
    Abstract: A manager system provides a set of integrated tools designed to assist in all stages of the military engagement training cycle: exercise creation, monitoring, and review. All information created or gathered at each stage is automatically made available to the next training stage. It can be distributed on the World-Wide Web, or can be viewed using a Web browser. The manager system uses the protocols established by the Distributed Interactive Simulation Standard (DIS) to both send and receive information from other DIS applications in order to perform each training stage. This allows the manager system to simultaneously monitor multiple dissimilar DIS training simulators during a joint exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Eyton Pollak, Sandra Vaquerizo
  • Patent number: 5571018
    Abstract: An arrangement for simulating indirect fire in military combat training exercises in which each individual exercise participant is not required to be equipped with an individual position-locating device. The arrangement uses a technique of grouping (20, 30) the players (1-7,11-17) and equipping only one member of the group with a position-locating device (43). The position of the single player equipped with the position-locating device is used to determine if the group is located within the area affected by simulated indirect fire. Once the group has been determined to be within the affected area, individual players within the group assess their own casualties based on weapon-target pairing and random chance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark R. FitzGerald
  • Patent number: 5382958
    Abstract: A time transfer position location method and arrangement. A mission control station initiates a number of relays placed throughout a simulated battlefield. Each of the relays then obtains position and time information from a Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite. Each relay repeatedly transmits position information (timing pulse) in a particular time slot over the playing field. In addition, fire mission information which includes type of munition deployed and its range and affects is also transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark R. FitzGerald
  • Patent number: 5321263
    Abstract: A recording target includes targeting information printed on a substrate offset from a visible target and masked from the weapon operator by a thermal clearing masking layer. The operator aims at the visible target and the simulated weapon applies a focussed pulse of intense visible light to the masked targeting information to reveal the relevant targeting information by being converted into infrared radiation, by the thermal clearing masking layer and/or a portion of the masked targeting information thereunder, which clears or renders transparent the portions of the thermal clearing masking layer illuminated by the focussed visible light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Assignee: Simon Marketing, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew S. Filo
  • Patent number: 5292254
    Abstract: A method for a minefield simulation includes a number of troops and vehicles each including a player detection device or vehicle detection device respectively. The player detection devices and vehicle detection devices determine and transmit their respective locations to a central computer. The central computer or player determines whether the player is within an activation radius of a mine in the minefield. The central computer or player has established a bit map of the minefield with indications of the exact placement of the mines within the minefield. If a player (troop or vehicle) is within the activation radius of a mine, the central computer or player records the identity of the expended mine in the minefield bit map by changing its indication from active to inactive. Either central computer or the player detection device may determine the effects of the expended mine upon the troop or vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph R. Miller, Craig T. Griffin
  • Patent number: 5074793
    Abstract: A mine effects simulator system for simulating the operation and encounter f land mines and their potential effects on an armored vehicle. The system utilizes an authentic land mine activation mechanism, radio transmitter and logic circuitry and provides a radio frequency signal when activated by the proximity of an armored vehicle. The armored vehicle has a receiver device which receives the signal to determine a "hit" or "kill" based upon the time of the mine detonation with respect to mine to vehicle position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Harry N. Hambric, Wilfred J. Gregson, II, James D. Lundin, Kenneth V. Strittmatter, Lawrence A. Koster
  • Patent number: 5035622
    Abstract: A trainer for manually aimed weapons, having a projection screen video sym, a video disk player for providing pre-recorded scenes of a target image, a simulated weapon having actuable trigger, and a microprocessor having a file that identifies target location and range within each frame of the scenes and programmed to superimpose upon actuation of the trigger a graphic in-flight and impact image of a shot computed from a fourth order ballistics equation. Recoil of the simulated weapon is provided by pneumatics, as well as sound affects of the shot and its distant impact. Hit and miss explosions are provided in graphics selected from a set of stored image data by comparing the computed location of impact to the pre-identified target location. For shots that impact beyond the target, blanking of the graphics image is provided for that part of the explosion hidden by the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1991
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Albert H. Marshall, Ronald S. Wolff, Robert T. McCormack, Edward J. Purvis
  • Patent number: 4948371
    Abstract: An interactive video display system comprising a laser disc player with a remote large-screen projector to view life-size video scenarios and a control computer. A video disc has at least one basic scenario and one or more branches of the basic scenario with one or more subbranches from any one or more of the branches and further subbranches, if desired, to any level of programming desired. The control computer is programmed for interactive control of the branching, and control of other effects that enhance the scenario, in response to detection of when the trainee has (1) drawn an infrared laser handgun from his holster, (2) fired his laser handgun, (3) taken cover, (4) advanced or retreated from the adversary on the screen, and (5) when the adversary has fired his gun at the trainee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventor: Howard F. Hall
  • Patent number: 4838945
    Abstract: A thermoplastic resin composition for cleaning a shaping apparatus such as an extrude by a simple operation, comprising 2-30% by weight of a sodium salt of sulfonic acid, 0.5-10% by weight of a water-repellent compound and a thermoplastic resin and as an optional component, finely ground inorganic compound having a particle size of 0.005 to 10 .mu.m.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1989
    Assignee: Chisso Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Fujii, Takamichi Kudo, Haruhiko Furukawa, Nobusuke Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 4818232
    Abstract: A system for measuring the eye-hand coordination proficiency of a tank gunner/commander. A target board is located some distance away from the tank. A second "recording" board is located near the tank at the muzzle end of the main gun. As the gunner/commander sights a target line on the target board a marking element attached to the gun traces a line on the recording board; the traced line can be used to measure proficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1989
    Inventor: Chris M. Pruitt